If you’re a fan of spray tans, you might be wondering whether you can layer them to achieve a darker or longer-lasting tan.

The short answer is yes you can layer spray tans, but there are some tips and precautions you should follow to avoid any issues.

In this article, we’ll cover why you might want to layer spray tans, how to do it properly, how often to do it, and what risks or drawbacks to be aware of.

Why Would You Want to Layer Spray Tans?

Before we get into the details of layering spray tans, let’s review what spray tans are and how they work. Spray tans use a chemical called DHA (dihydroxyacetone) to darken the outermost layer of your skin, giving you a temporary tan that lasts for about a week. DHA reacts with the amino acids in your skin to produce a brown pigment, mimicking the natural tanning process.

Now, why would you want to layer spray tans? There are several reasons why people might choose to do so:

To achieve a darker tan without having to buy a different product
To maintain a consistent tan throughout the summer or during a vacation
To correct or enhance a previous tan that faded or turned patchy

However, it’s important to note that layering spray tans can be tricky and requires some preparation and care. If you don’t do it properly, you risk ending up with an uneven or unnatural-looking tan.

How to Layer Spray Tans the Right Way

Here are some general guidelines for layering spray tans:

Exfoliate your skin before the first layer. Dead skin cells can interfere with the absorption and distribution of the spray tan, leading to patchiness or streaking.

Use a gentle body polisher or scrub to remove any rough or flaky skin, paying extra attention to your elbows, knees, and ankles.

Wait at least 8 hours between layers. DHA takes time to fully develop and darken your skin, so you need to give it enough time to work before applying another layer.

Waiting overnight is usually the best option. If you’re in a hurry, you can use an express or rapid spray tan product that develops in 1-3 hours.

Apply thin and even layers. Use a spray tan applicator or mitt to apply the tan evenly, avoiding any overlap or excess product. Start with the areas that tend to fade faster, such as the neck, underarms, and bra area.

Don’t forget to blend the tan around your wrists and ankles to avoid any harsh lines. If you’re using a spray tan can, hold it at least 6 inches away from your skin and move it in circular motions.

Moisturize your skin daily. Keeping your skin hydrated and nourished can help prolong your tan and prevent it from fading or peeling. Use a cocoa butter or aloe vera body butter that doesn’t contain any harsh chemicals or fragrances. Avoid using any oil-based or heavy moisturizers that can dissolve the spray tan.

Some products or tools that can help with layering spray tans include:

A gentle body polisher or scrub to exfoliate your skin
A cocoa butter or aloe vera body butter to moisturize your skin
A spray tan can or a spray tan machine to apply the tan evenly

How Often Should You Layer Spray Tans?

The frequency of layering spray tans depends on several factors, such as your skin type and tone, the intensity and shade of your desired tan, the quality and strength of your spray tan product, and your lifestyle and activities.

As a general rule of thumb, you can layer spray tans once a week or every other week, depending on how fast your tan fades. However, if you notice any signs of skin irritation or sensitivity, you should wait longer or switch to a milder product.

It’s also a good idea to detox and heavily exfoliate your skin once a month to remove all the old tan and start fresh. This can help prevent any buildup or discoloration that can make your tan look uneven or blotchy.

What Are the Risks or Drawbacks of Layering Spray Tans?

While layering spray tans can give you a beautiful and natural-looking tan, there are some potential downsides you should be aware of:

Skin irritation or sensitivity: Overexposure to DHA can cause your skin to become red, itchy, or inflamed. If you have sensitive skin or a history of allergies, you should do a patch test before layering spray tans and avoid any products that contain harsh chemicals or fragrances.
Unnatural or streaky tan: If you apply too much product, don’t blend it properly, or don’t wait long enough between layers, you risk ending up with a tan that looks orange, patchy, or streaky. This can be especially noticeable in areas with fine hair or dry skin.
Wasted time and money: If your spray tan doesn’t last long or doesn’t suit your skin tone, you may end up wasting your time and money on a product that doesn’t deliver the results you want.
No sun protection: Spray tans don’t provide any sun protection, so you still need to wear sunscreen when going outdoors. Don’t rely on your tan to shield you from UV rays, as it offers little to no protection against sunburn, skin aging, or skin cancer.

Important Frequently Asked Questions

Can you apply 2 layers of fake tan?

Yes, you can apply 2 or more layers of fake tan to achieve a darker or longer-lasting tan.

However, you need to follow some guidelines to avoid any issues, such as exfoliating your skin before the first layer, waiting at least 8 hours between layers, and moisturizing your skin daily. Be careful not to overdo it, as too many layers can make your tan look unnatural or orange.

Does layering spray tan make it darker?

Yes, layering spray tan can make it darker, as each layer adds more DHA to your skin and deepens the color.

However, you need to wait at least 8 hours between layers to allow the DHA to fully develop and avoid any streaking or patchiness. Keep in mind that too many layers can make your tan look too dark or fake, so use your judgment and follow the instructions of your spray tan product.

What happens if you get two spray tans?

If you get two spray tans in a row without waiting at least 8 hours between them, you risk overexposing your skin to DHA and causing skin irritation or sensitivity.

You may also end up with an uneven or blotchy tan, as the second layer may not adhere properly to the first one. Always wait at least 8 hours between spray tans and follow the instructions of your spray tan product.

Can I spray tan twice in one week?

You can spray tan twice in one week, but it depends on the type and strength of your spray tan product, as well as your skin type and tone.

If you have sensitive or dry skin, you should wait longer between spray tans to avoid any irritation or patchiness. Always do a patch test before using a new spray tan product and follow the instructions carefully.